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It is about that time in January when some people abandon their new year’s resolutions. But, you can be the exception. Drive less, save money, manage stress, be environmentally friendly, and get to work/home on time! Give carpooling a try this year.

You don’t need a carpool app, GMTMA can help you safely set up or join a carpool and make sure you have a way to go home in case of an emergency. Our Emergency Ride Home program gives registered carpoolers a free lift home if they have to leave early or stay late at work.

Last year over 2,600 people in Mercer and Ocean counties used our Rideshare services. Here is what you need to know:

The latest weather forecast for Mercer and Ocean County is 12 to 18 inches of snow, starting late Friday and ending late Saturday into Sunday morning.

Since many people run their errands on weekends, here are some winter safety tips to remember when you are out and about. Whenever possible, you should wait to travel until the roads are clear and conditions improve.

Resolution #1 Lose weight, get in shape, exercise more (you get the idea)
If too many holiday parties and goodies have you making this resolution then look no further than your driveway…and leave your car parked! Try walking or biking to work or to the bus or train. If that’s not possible you can still swap some of your car trips to run errands with biking or walking. Did you know that on average people who commute using active transportation and by transit have less body fat than those who drive?

Resolution #2Spend less, save more, stick to the budget, etc.
You will see immediate savings if you switch from driving alone to walking, biking, carpooling, vanpooling or using transit. According to the American Public Transportation Association’s Transit Savings Report, on average a person commuting by transit rather than driving will save $771 per month. Gas prices may be down, but carpooling and sharing the ride with just one person cuts your cost by 50%! Feeling bold and want to save even more? You can go car free and use a service like Zipcar for the times you must have a car.

Resolution #3 Enjoy life to the fullest, have more fun!
Add a dose of happiness to your day by biking or walking to work! According to a study from Portland State University, commuters who bike to work enjoyed their commutes the most, followed closely by those who walk. Least satisfied…folks that drove alone.

Resolution #4 Learn something new
When you let someone else do the driving you’ll have lots more time for reading (or writing) the great American novel. Plenty of extra time to do research on the internet too!

Resolution #5 Spend more time with family and friends
Nothing can shorten your commute time like telecommuting! If it’s an option for you—even just one day a week, you can add a little extra time to the day to spend with your family. Or take advantage of your company’s flex time and commute during less congested hours to cut down on your commute time.

Make 2016 a year of smart commute choices! Let your commute help you keep your New Year’s resolutions! GMTMA can help you reach your goals. Visit us at gmtma.org for more information.